KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — Despite some local backlash over mask mandates in schools, Kalamazoo County Commissioners have approved a resolution applauding Health Director Jim Rutherford. The resolution was approved 6 to 5.
Democrats support Rutherford’s decision to issue the mask mandate after the COVID-19 Delta variant triggered another spike in cases. Most Republican Commissioners shied away from criticizing Rutherford, but did say the timing for the resolution was bad. Commissioner John Gisler was not so reserved about it.
“He basically has taken the role of a health dictator and I object to that vehemently.”
A resolution that would rescind the mask mandate in elementary schools will get a vote in two weeks as Chair Tracy Hall agreed to put it on the agenda, only as a courtesy.
“I did that because that resolution came from a community member. I won’t be supporting it because there are things in there that are not factual.”
The County Board does not have the authority under the State Health Code to rescind health orders, and it’s not expected to pass anyway.
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